tag

Commercial Bank launched CB Multi, a unique and fully digital Multicurrency Mastercard Platinum Prepaid Card, across Qatar. The new payment product will enable customers to load multiple currencies onto a single card, making it easier to manage their expenses when travelling abroad. Any customer wishing to digitally apply for the card can do so by simply logging into the CBQ Mobile App. The card can be issued in physical and/or digital form, based on customer preference, and will have the capability to be tokenised into mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay. Shahnawaz Rashid, EGM and head of Retail Banking at Commercial Bank, said: “Our CB Multicurrency Mastercard Platinum Prepaid Card will showcase our dedication to delivering a seamless banking experience, as it empowers customers to make payments effortlessly while on the go. We believe this card will demonstrate that convenient banking solutions and sustainability can truly go hand in hand. Our goal is to empower our customers to embrace sustainability wherever their financial journey takes them.” JK Khalil, EVP and Division president for East Arabia at Mastercard, said: “At Mastercard, we are committed to connecting people to their passion for travel, and this includes boosting the travel experience for our cardholders through innovative payment solutions. Building on our longstanding partnership with Commercial Bank, we have co-created this exciting new solution to revolutionise travel finances, offering unparalleled security and efficiency for travellers.” To enrich the Bank's sustainable initiatives, CB Multicurrency Mastercard Platinum Prepaid Card is manufactured from 85% recycled plastic, which contributes to reducing its environmental impact. 

Commercial Bank has reported net profit of QR2.2bn in 2025 and recommended 30% cash dividend.The core income momentum remained "positive", supported by growth in balance sheet. The financials and proposed dividend distribution are subject to the Qatar Central Bank's approval and endorsement by shareholders at the group’s annual general meeting.Net interest income rose by 2.9% to QR3.41bn, and the group continued to grow core net fee and commission-based income, with fees and other income increasing by 10.8% to QR1.37bn.Total assets were up 16.4% year-on-year to QR192.9bn at the end of December 31, 2025. This is mainly driven by an increase in loans and advances to customers and an increase in investment securities.Investment securities grew 21.3% to QR40.3bn with the group investing in high-quality market securities. Net Loans and advances to customers increased to QR104.5bn, up 14.3% due to higher corporate, government and public sector, retail lending and acceptances. Excluding acceptances, which are trade related items, the loan growth is about 5.7%.However, the group net earnings fell 27.3% on an annualised basis, reflecting higher net provisions, increased operating expenses including IFRS 2 related long term incentive scheme (LTIS) movements, and a reported loss of QR144.7mn from its Turkish subsidiary including the impacts of hyper-inflation.The group also accrued for BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) Pillar Two Tax, a charge of QR179.4mn. It may benefit from certain available reliefs on the finalisation of the draft executive regulations which is now expected in 2026.Net provisions were at QR1.19bn supported by strong recoveries which increased by 18.3% to QR711.8mn.Regarding core businesses, its retail and wealth business continues to deliver good and consistent returns. On the wholesale banking side, despite a challenging year, its lending book grew whilst it also continued to focus on transaction banking services.The associates continued to perform well as it continues to work closely with them in the execution of their strategies. The performance at Alternatif Bank in Turkiye improved at operating profit level.“2025 marked a year of disciplined execution and continued balance-sheet resilience across loans and investment securities. The group delivered positive momentum in core income and asset growth, underpinned by prudent governance and robust risk management framework," said Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor al-Thani, Commercial Bank chairman.Customer deposits grew 16.2% year-on-year to QR89.4bn in 2025 as the bank focused on reducing high cost of funding, while growing low-cost deposits by 4.5%, which represents 37% of the total customer deposits mix.Debt securities and other borrowings in issue increased to QR13.3bn and QR27.4bn respectively, as the group diversified its funding sources.The group’s Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1) ratio was at 12.2%. The capital adequacy ratio (CAR) increased to 17.6%.Omar Hussain Alfardan, vice-chairman and managing director, said in 2025, the group delivered steady operating profit growth, with positive contributions from all entities."We strengthened our franchise through enhanced customer propositions, expanded fee-based income streams, and value-added services. In parallel, we advanced targeted innovation and capability building, while reinforcing our long-term commitment to sustainability and national talent development,” he added. 

Commercial Bank has been honoured with the prestigious Straight-Through-Processing (STP) Excellence Award from Citi Bank, recognising the Bank’s outstanding STP performance in achieving 99.9% in commercial payments and 100% in treasury payments.Held at Commercial Bank Plaza, the ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Commercial Bank, including Omran al- Sherawi, Senior AGM and Head of ALM; Mansoor Salem, AGM, Head of Financial Institutions; Kiran Gusain, Regional Head, Financial Institution; Philomena Gan, AGM Institutional Operations; Amir Raza, Senior Manager; and Abdulrahman Zaghmout, Regional Head, Financial Institution.Delegates from Citi Bank also attended, including Seemanti Considine, the new FI Sales Head for Middle East and Pakistan; Sammy Yasin, Director, Middle East & Africa Corporate Banking – Qatar & Oman Coverage; and Ikram Kably – Vice-President, Financial Institutions Client Executive – Treasury & Trade Solutions.Fahad Badar, Executive General Manager and Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer of Commercial Bank, said:“Receiving this award marks an important milestone for Commercial Bank, reinforcing our commitment to operational excellence and the highest standards in commercial and treasury transfers.“Being a financial partner means more than the traditional definition; we are dedicated to setting new industry standards and offering services that enhance the banking experience. Each recognition strengthens our resolve to deliver exceptional banking while supporting Qatar’s ambitious vision”.Seemanti B Considine said: “We are very pleased to present this award to Commercial Bank, which is a testament to their operational efficiency and commitment towards excellence.” 

Commercial Bank has launched Qatar’s first Metaverse-enabled ‘Auto Marketplace’ on the CBQ Mobile App.Through this innovation, customers can now explore a fully interactive, virtual showroom directly from their smartphones.Using Meta Quest (Oculus) virtual reality (VR) headsets, they can immerse themselves in a 3D environment, where detailed digital models bring each vehicle to life.Beyond exploration, customers can also schedule test drives and apply for vehicle loans from the app, completing their car-buying journey with ease and convenience.Shahnawaz Rashid, Executive General Manager and Head of Retail Banking at Commercial Bank, said: “This launch marks another step in redefining what modern banking can offer. By introducing the Metaverse to our Auto Marketplace, we have reimagined the way customers discover, experience, and purchase cars.“At Commercial Bank, our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and so we continue to lead the way in driving meaningful digital innovation across Qatar’s financial landscape.”As a recognised leader in digital banking innovation, Commercial Bank continues to pioneer technologies that enhance customer experiences and redefine banking in Qatar and the region. From introducing the latest in digital banking solutions to continuously enhancing customer experiences through biometric verification and real-time fraud protection, Commercial Bank consistently delivers services that blend security with convenience.With the introduction of Qatar’s first Metaverse-enabled Auto Marketplace, Commercial Bank once again leverages its award-winning mobile application to demonstrate its forward-thinking approach, merging immersive technology with financial services to create more intuitive, connected, and engaging customer journeys.This latest innovation reinforces the bank’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, empowering individuals and businesses alike in a rapidly evolving financial landscape and underscores its role as a driving force in digital transformation across Qatar’s banking sector. 

As United Arab Bank (UAB) marks its 50th anniversary, Commercial Bank extended its heartfelt congratulations and joined the celebration at the gala dinner in the Museum of The Future, UAE.Key attendees included Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor al-Thani, Chairman of Commercial Bank and Director as well as Member of the Board Risk and Compliance Committee at UAB; Omar Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Commercial Bank and Vice-Chairman, Chairman of the Board Governance & Renumeration Committee of UAB; Stephen Moss, Group CEO of Commercial Bank, Director, Member of the Board Credit Committee, Member of the Board Audit Committee, Member of the Board Governance and Remuneration Committee at UAB; Fahad Badar, Executive General Manager, Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer of Commercial Bank as well as Director and Member of Board Credit Committee and Member of Board Risk and Compliance Committee at UAB.Since its establishment in 1975, UAB has played a central role in shaping UAE’s banking sector, offering world-class corporate and retail services. In 2007, Commercial Bank became a strategic partner with the acquisition of a 40% stake, marking the first partnership between Qatar and the UAE.Over the years, UAB has expanded its presence and continued to elevate customer experience. This partnership stands as a testament to how regional collaboration can drive progress, inspire excellence, and set new benchmarks across the Gulf.“When institutions share a mutual ambition, they have the power to advance the financial industry and shape a stronger regional future. This is how great achievements are built, and more importantly, sustained. At Commercial Bank, we value partnerships founded on collaboration and trust. For decades, United Arab Bank has demonstrated a commitment that aligns closely with ours.“Today, as it marks 50 years of achievement and leadership in the UAE, we celebrate its inspiring journey and enduring legacy,” said Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor al-Thani.Through this long-term partnership, Commercial Bank looks ahead with confidence as it continues to support UAB’s growth and advancing collaboration across the region’s financial landscape.

Aiming to acquire global insights, play a role in policy discussions, and strengthen its international credibility, Commercial Bank has participated in the 2025 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Institute of International Finance (IIF) in Washington, DC.The reception, hosted by the Qatari Banks on October 15 was attended by HE the Minister of Finance, Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari; HE the Governor of Qatar Central Bank, Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud al-Thani; as well as Board members, CEOs and senior executives of Qatari banks.Commercial Bank was represented at these meetings by Board Member, Mohamad Ismail Mandani al-Emadi; Group CEO, Stephen Moss; Executive General Manager and Chief Marketing Officer, Eiman al-Naemi; Executive General Manager, Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer, Fahad Badar; Executive General Manager, Treasury and Investments, Parvez Khan; and Senior AGM and Head of ALM, Omran al-Sherawi.Throughout these meetings, Commercial Bank explored new business opportunities and strengthened relationships with leading banks across the region and globally, showcasing its leadership in digital innovation.Moss noted: “The innovative solutions we introduce and steps we take to support the growth of Qatar’s financial sector are further strengthened by the knowledge and connections we gain at the annual IMF and IIF meetings. These gatherings give us access to best practices and insights that we bring back home to Qatar and implement in the best way possible.”

Commercial Bank announced the successful issuance and pricing of a $600mn five-year senior unsecured bond under the Bank and its subsidiary, CBQ Finance Limited’s $5bn European Medium Term Note (EMTN) Programme. The issue was arranged and offered through a syndicate of Joint Lead Managers comprising Citibank, Barclays, ANZ, Mizuho, UniCredit, QNB Capital and Doha Bank. To support the issue, representatives from Commercial Bank embarked on a virtual road show with the Joint Lead Managers. During the virtual roadshow, they presented to financial institutions, pension funds, asset managers and supranational bodies, and held one-to-one and group meetings. Following the end of the Investor meetings, the transaction saw strong demand, with approximately $2bn order book (an oversubscription by approximately x 4) allowing Commercial Bank to tighten the final spread. The bond was issued at a spread of 100 basis points over mid-swaps, carries a coupon of 4.625% and has a final reoffer yield of 4.689% per annum.Commercial Bank achieved its lowest spread ever booked by robust international demand. Although the spread was tightened by 25 basis points the book remained strong reflecting strong investor appetite. The net proceeds of the issue will be used for general funding purposes to support the strategic growth plans of Commercial Bank. Very high-quality investors from the global community participated in this issue, with the majority of investors from the MENA (54%) and Europe (22%), followed by Asia (17%) and offshore US (7%). The investor base is diversified, including some of the world’s leading fixed income investors, with strong demand from fund managers, sovereign funds, banks and GCC institutions. Commenting on the successful issuance, Executive General Manager (Treasury and Investments) at Commercial Bank, Parvez Khan said: “We are delighted by the investor response to our issuance under the EMTN Programme. The market demand and attractive pricing is a clear indication of the continuing confidence of international investors in the economic strength of Qatar, and is testament to Commercial Bank’s strategy, financial strength and prudent management.” Commercial Bank was the first Qatari entity to establish an EMTN Programme with a listing on the London Stock Exchange, and the first Qatari bank to issue a bond in the international capital markets. The bonds are listed on the Irish Stock Exchange and are rated A by Fitch.

Commercial Bank saw a remarkable turnout at ‘Career Day’, hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour. Due to the success of the event, Commercial Bank will be hosting Career Day annually to continue opening doors for Qatari nationals and children of Qatari mothers to join the private sector.The event attracted large number of Qatari candidates, of whom 53% were invited for an on-site interview and 42% of the interviewees received job offers on the day.The Career Day welcomed students and young professionals alike and introduced attendees to career pathways in fields beyond banking and finance including economics, MIS, computer engineering, cybersecurity, data engineering, technology and law.The hiring process followed standard stages of registration and CV collection, HR screening, interviews with hiring managers, role assessments where required, reference and background checks, and final onboarding.Out of the interviewees, seven young Qataris including the children of Qatari mothers were invited to sign the accepted job offers in the presence of Mohammed Juma al-Kuwari, Assistant Director of the Department of National Manpower Recruitment Department.Qatarisation remains a strategic priority for Commercial Bank. The bank currently employs 38.1% Qatari nationals across multiple business units and has set annual targets to increase representation in specialist and leadership roles. As part of this commitment, Commercial Bank provides tailored internship and training programmes that equip young Qataris with practical skills and career development opportunities, ensuring their active participation across departments and strengthening the pipeline of future leaders.Speaking on the occasion, Khalifa al-Rayes, Executive General Manager and Chief Human Capital Officer of Commercial Bank, said: “We are delighted with the success of our recent Career Day held at Commercial Bank Plaza.This is just the beginning, CB Career Day will now become an annual initiative, reflecting our strong commitment to supporting Qatar’s workforce and building a sustainable talent pipeline in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. Once again, we affirm at Commercial Bank our commitment to being at the forefront of financial institutions that open new horizons for Qatari talent.”By offering opportunities to explore careers and gain insight into the banking sector, the initiative reinforces Commercial Bank’s commitment to developing human capital and supporting Qatar’s long-term economic and social development objectives.